‘It’s as simple as that’
Hidden Northern Quarter speakeasy The Fitzgerald has been praised for how it responded to people criticising a Pride event(Image: Sean Hansford | Manchester Evening News)
A Northern Quarter venue has been praised after staff responded to a series of ‘horrendous’ comments shared in response to an event being held to celebrate Pride.
Speakeasy and cocktail bar The Fitzgerald, in Stevenson Square, hosted a Pride-themed edition of its popular monthly cabaret night Decadence After Dark last week. The event, on August 14, featured a host of talented artists, including stage performer Sam Buttery and drag artist Skylar Cister.
The venue said a post celebrating the event had received ‘some horrendous comments’ from people ‘spewing hate’ and criticising the night. The comments have since been deleted online, and organisers said those responsible had been blocked and since been banned from visiting the venue again.
Posting on social media, The Fitzgerald wrote: “We wanted to address something that happened recently on one of our Facebook posts. We posted a reel last week promoting our monthly cabaret night, Decadence After Dark. The theme this month was all about Pride.
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The Fitzgerald regularly hosts cabaret nights featuring a variety of performers(Image: The Fitzgerald)
“The post, unfortunately, attracted some horrendous comments, which we refuse to repeat. It was a sad reminder of how much hate and intolerance there is still in the world and why these Pride events are needed.
“Those people have been blocked and reported and are not welcome at The Fitzgerald!”
Bosses of the bar went a step further by demonstrating how it was an ‘inclusive space’ for performers to ‘express themselves however they wish’, and advised those who disagree to not come to The Fitzgerald in the future.
The post went on to say: “The Fitz aims to be an inclusive space where artists can come, hone their craft and express themselves however they wish.
“To supportive audiences with open minds who want to have fun, sing, dance and show each other that there is still kindness and acceptance in the world. If that isn’t for you, then don’t bother coming to The Fitz.
“The beauty of social media is, if you don’t like something, just scroll past. It’s as simple as that. You don’t need to spew hatred over the internet. You can just live your life and let others live theirs.
“To all our lovely customers that do support us, to our acts and our staff, we hope you have a wonderful Pride weekend.”
Manchester Pride returns across the city centre this weekend(Image: Kenny Brown | Manchester Evening News)
The statement was praised by many of the venue’s regular customers, as well as a number of artists who have performed at The Fitzgerald in the past.
One person said: “Well said!” Another wrote: “I love you for your kindness! You will always be Manchester’s top venue.” One other commented: “There is no place for such hate at the Fitz! Only love and support!! Happy pride!!”
Drag artist Skylar Cister wrote: “As someone who performed at the event, the Fitz has been nothing but accommodating and accepting and this message truly shows just that! keep scrolling haters & happy pride.”
Others also reiterated how the actions and response to the initial post had just further highlighted why events like Pride are still important today – to help raise awareness and eliminate prejudice towards the LGBTQ+ community.
One person commented: “Ironically all the haters just proving why we STILL need pride month!” Another wrote: “This is definitely the reason why PRIDE is needed all across the country.”
One other posted: “THIS is how you react to intolerance. Well done for standing your ground in support of the LGBT community. Other, bigger venues and businesses should take note.”
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